News

Firefighters’ warning after Whetstone house fire

Yesterday’s Oakleigh Park South blaze was believed to be caused by an unattended candle
By Barnet Post

London Fire Brigade has issued a warning (Photo: David Tomaseti/Unsplash)
London Fire Brigade has issued a warning (Photo: David Tomaseti/Unsplash)

Barnet residents have been warned against leaving candles unattended following a house fire in Whetstone.

Yesterday on Monday, 3rd January at 10am, four fire engines and 25 firefighters from stations in Barnet, Finchley and Southgate attended a blaze at a detached Oakleigh Park South property.

No injuries were reported. The fire was put out in 40 minutes, but damage was done to the first floor and roof.

The cause of the fire was believed to be an unattended candle.

A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade said: “Candles, incense sticks and oil burners are one of the most common causes of fire.

“It’s really important that you never leave them unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire such as curtains, furniture or clothes.

“There were also no working smoke alarms in the property. Smoke alarms give the earliest possible warning to fire, providing time to escape. You should have smoke alarms in every room where a fire could start, plus a heat alarm in the kitchen.”


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